30 June 2009

Solis Criticizes Defacing of Gay Pride Posters at Labor Dept.

Last week, Labor Secretary Hilda Solis issued a stern departmental warning letter after office posters celebrating LGBT Pride Month "hanging in 35 department elevators since June 22 [were] either defaced or removed," the New York Times reports. Solis, who helped found the House’s LGBT Caucus, writes she was "particularly pleased to have the opportunity to be the first Secretary in the department’s history to publicly recognize Pride Month."

"It appears, however, that some members of the Labor Department team have a different view, as it has come to my attention that most of the posters have been continually defaced or removed. On several occasions, even the poster frames have been torn completely off the elevator walls. [...] I do not believe these actions represent the majority of our employees, so I refuse to let this situation define us. But I do want to make myself absolutely clear: Respect for others is non-negotiable at the U.S. Department of Labor."

The Secretary adds the gay Pride posters will be "immediately" replaced if they are damaged or removed.

We really have got to realize this is deeper than a statement!We really are not part of this society, and we need to regroup and stop white folks from speaking for us! A march and a Black Pride event is not where we need to be right now.....This is serious Business Brothers!!!Think about it before you give praise.
The fact that they were defaced and damaged says a lot. Replacing the signs is not the issue.....
Love to you all.

Yes there will always be people out there who hate us (for being black or gay or both). I still say Brava to Secretary Solis for saying "Oh Hell naw, not in MY department you ain't" (...or something like that anyway...LOL)